Usyk vs Parker, López vs Romero and More: Unmissable Boxing Fights

The 2025 Boxing Calendar: Expected Fights and Possible Stellar Matchups

After a weekend that solidified Oleksandr Usyk as the best pound-for-pound boxer and the long-awaited return of Manny Pacquiao, the boxing world sets its sights on the rest of 2025. Canelo Álvarez and Terence Crawford will face each other in a major fight on September 13 for the undisputed super middleweight championship. But, what other fights could grab attention in the remainder of the year and in the future? Here’s a look at some of the possible matchups that could shape the future of boxing in the coming months.

Oleksandr Usyk vs. Joseph Parker

Before a possible trilogy with Tyson Fury, Usyk could seek a preparatory fight. Facing Parker, mandatory challenger of the WBO and friend of Fury, could be a strategic option. Frank Warren, Parker’s promoter, looks favorably upon the idea of Parker, former WBO champion, being Usyk’s next opponent. Parker, who trains with Fury and has revitalized his career, has shown great performance in his last fights, including important victories. Parker (36-3, 24 KOs) has proven to be a high-level contender, with experience that surpasses other contenders. Parker’s connection to Fury, which would help build the Usyk vs. Fury trilogy, and Usyk’s need to defend his WBO belt make Parker a viable option.

Teofimo López vs. Rolando “Rolly” Romero

This matchup between López and Romero, following their recent victories, could be a crucial step for both in the welterweight division. The combination of López’s technique with Romero’s power promises an attractive fight. López (22-1, 13 KOs), WBO super lightweight champion, would seek to establish himself at welterweight. Romero (17-2, 13 KOs), for his part, will seek to continue rising in the division after his surprising victory over Ryan García, demonstrating his ability to impact high-level rivals. The rivalry between the two, added to the controversy they usually generate, could turn this fight into an event of great interest.

Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul

If this fight materializes, Joshua, a former world champion, could see his reputation affected by facing a rival with a lower competitive level. Joshua (28-4, 24 KOs) hasn’t fought since his defeat to Daniel Dubois in September. Paul, for his part, is coming off a victory against Julio César Chávez Jr. Despite Joshua’s defeat, Paul needs to prove he is up to the task. Although this fight could generate worldwide interest, Joshua should seek matches with higher-caliber rivals.

Shakur Stevenson vs. Conor Benn

Given the possible cancellation of the rematch between Benn and Chris Eubank Jr., Stevenson could be an interesting alternative. Stevenson (23-0, 11 KOs) would have to move up from lightweight to super lightweight to face Benn (23-1, 14 KOs). This fight would present a clash of styles: Stevenson’s skill against Benn’s power.

Stevenson, after his recent victory, and Benn could generate an attractive encounter both inside and outside the ring.

Katie Taylor vs. Chantelle Cameron

Taylor could consider a third fight with Cameron, the only one who has defeated her in professional boxing. After resolving the trilogy with Serrano, Cameron is emerging as Taylor’s biggest rival. Cameron inflicted Taylor’s only defeat in May 2023, but Taylor took revenge in November 2023. This fight could depend on Taylor’s decision about her future in boxing, but if it materializes, it would be one of the most anticipated events in women’s boxing.

Jai Opetaia vs. Gilberto Ramírez

Opetaia, IBF champion, and Ramírez, unified WBA and WBO champion, could star in a cruiserweight unification fight. This matchup could bring attention to a division that often goes unnoticed. Ramírez would seek to consolidate his status in the division, while Opetaia also aspires to achieve undisputed status. Ramírez could consider this fight if a match against WBC champion David Benavidez does not materialize.